"We have investigated this matter thoroughly and have confirmed that David Schwimmer was in America on this date.

"We're so sorry it has to be this way."

A Facebook user, referencing the Friends theme song, replied: "I don't think it's been this guy's day, his week, his month or even his year....."

Another, referencing a Friends episode where Ross says he is an expert in self-defence, wrote: "Please approach with caution. He is known to have studied karate and we believe he has mastered the art of unagi, the state of total awareness."